Crusades
By: Reed Walker and Michael Nehme
Overveiw of the Crusades
The crusades were a series of religious battles that took place in the middle ages. There were 3 (Christianity, Judaism, and Muslum) religions trying to take over the holy land, also known as Jerusalem. The crusades started in 1095 when Pope Claremont preached the First Crusade at the Council of Claremont.
Causes of the Crusades
The city of Jerusalem was the main cause of the crusades. Jerusalem held holy significance to the Christians, and was in control by the Saracens. Although, Christian pilgrims had been granted safe passage to visit the city. In 1065, Jerusalem was taken by the Turks, who came from Persia. 3,000 Christians were massacred and the others were treated so poorly that people were stirred to fight in crusades.
Effects of the Crusades
The crusades kept all of Europe in a tumult for two centuries. It also cost Christendom over 5 million lives. One of the effects that comes along with every war was the commerce. The war needed transportation, supplies, andnship-builders. It primarily extended the market for eastern wares in Europe. As for the political effects, it helped to break down the power of the feuds, aristocracy, and to give prominence to the kings and people.
Essential Questions
1) How can religion cause brutal wars against different groups?
2) How can the desire for religious land create hatred between religions?